The General's Army
Elite imperial forces wielding Teigu under General Esdeath's command.
The term refers to the elite military forces commanded by General Esdeath within the larger structure of the Imperial Army. These troops serve as the primary enforcement arm of the Empire, tasked with suppressing rebellion and maintaining order through overwhelming force. While technically part of the state's standing army, their loyalty is often directed toward their commander rather than the Emperor himself.
- Commander
- General Esdeath
- Affiliation
- The Empire (Capital)
- Primary Weaponry
- Teigu and Standard Imperial Arms
- Operational Base
- Imperial Capital and Frontlines
- Status
- Active during Main Storyline
Lore & Background
This military division stands apart from standard infantry due to its integration of Teigu technology. While regular soldiers rely on conventional weapons, the General’s elite units are equipped with artifacts that grant supernatural abilities, ensuring they can counter the threat posed by revolutionary groups like Night Raid. Their training emphasizes discipline and survival, reflecting Esdeath's philosophy that only the strong deserve to live. The forces operate under a doctrine of absolute control, often bypassing legal procedures to eliminate perceived threats immediately. This autonomy allows them to act swiftly against assassins and rebels but also contributes to their reputation as oppressors among the common people. Their presence is frequently marked by snow and ice, mirroring the powers wielded by their leader.
In Their Own Story
The wind howled across the frozen plain, carrying the scent of blood and iron. A battalion clad in crimson armor stood motionless, breath pluming in the cold air. At their head, a figure with long silver hair watched the horizon, eyes glowing with an icy blue light. She did not speak; she simply raised a hand. The ground beneath them froze instantly, locking the enemy's feet in place before they could even draw their blades.
Reader's Guide
The Empire maintains a vast military structure designed to enforce its rule across all territories. Historically, the armed forces were organized into regional divisions loyal to the capital. Over time, corruption within the nobility led to a shift in command authority, empowering high-ranking generals like Esdeath to act with significant autonomy. These elite units are distinguished by their access to Teigu weapons, which grant them superior combat capabilities compared to standard infantry. During the period of unrest preceding Night Raid's rise, the military became increasingly brutal in suppressing dissent. The General’s forces often operated independently from civilian oversight, focusing on eliminating threats rather than protecting citizens. This created a reputation for fear among the populace, as their presence signaled imminent violence or arrest. Despite internal conflicts within the capital, these troops remained the primary instrument of state power until the final confrontation that reshaped the nation's future.
Did You Know?
- General Esdeath holds the rank of General but commands forces with near-total independence from the Emperor.
- Many soldiers in this division utilize Teigu weapons, making them significantly stronger than regular conscripts.
- The unit is known for its high attrition rate due to the extreme brutality of their missions against Night Raid.